Stokes Art Plazas
Location: Cleveland, OH
Completed: 2025
Collaborators: Gray Haus Studio, Ron Shelton, Darius Steward
As the pilot project for the Transit Demand Management plan in Cleveland, Stokes Art Plazas provides public space with art, lighting, and seating along a busy transit route, enhancing the urban experience. The plazaz were designed as a collaboration between LayerCake and artists Ron Shelton and Darius Steward. A central four-foot bronze statue is placed on the South corner of the property, and a large three-foot red powder-coated steel ball is located on the opposite North corner. Ten 21-inch steel jacks are dispersed throughout the plaza, with two jacks located in front of the young girl and eight positioned outside the pedestrian walking path.
Game of Jacks
Fabrication process
LayerCake facilitated the translation of the artists' sketches into 3D reality. This was the first time Darius Steward had conceived of a sculpture, having primarily worked with watercolor as a medium. We created a 3D model from his sketch and worked with fabricators to make his vision a reality.
Special
details
Integration of art and landscape
The ground design of the plaza features sandblasted Andinkra Tabon symbols. Nearly identical to the shape of a jack, this West African symbol represents a paddle or oar and signifies strength, confidence, and persistence. The custom tinted color of the concrete makes it stand out as its own piece of art.
“There can be renewed excitement about the game of jacks. I shared this game during family game night at PNC Fairfax Connection. The adults familiar with the game displayed child-like excitement, which stimulated curiosity in the youth. The game could bring us back to analogical thinking and community. The youth can strengthen basic skills in math and strategic planning, while developing eye-hand coordination. Sometimes we need to go back and relearn the simpler things.”
- Ron Shelton, artist
People
Practice
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